What is Sjögren’s Syndrome? Eye Doctor Explains

Common symptoms of Sjögren’s Syndrome include dryness of the eyes, mouth, throat, and nasal passages, leading to a gritty sensation, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness. Other symptoms may include joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, and recurrent respiratory infections.

Diagnosis of Sjögren’s Syndrome involves a thorough medical history evaluation, physical examination, and specific tests. Blood tests, eye tests, and saliva tests are often performed to detect antibodies and measure the levels of specific proteins indicative of the condition.

While there is no cure for Sjögren’s Syndrome, treatment aims to manage symptoms and prevent complications. This may include the use of artificial tears and saliva substitutes, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief, and immunosuppressive medications to reduce inflammation. Additionally, patients are often advised to practice good dental hygiene, use humidifiers, and protect their eyes from further dryness.

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Sjögren’s Syndrome can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, but with proper management and regular medical care, individuals can lead productive lives and effectively control the symptoms of the disease.

Sjögren’s Syndrome:

Common symptoms of Sjögren’s Syndrome include:

• Severe dryness of the eyes
• Dry mouth and difficulty swallowing
• Excessive fatigue and muscle weakness
• Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
• Skin rashes and dryness
• Recurrent respiratory infections
• Tingling or numbness in the extremities
• Difficulty concentrating and memory problems

Sjögren’s Syndrome

• Unknown
• Autoimmune disorder
• Genetic susceptibility
• Environmental factors
• Hormonal imbalances
• Viruses or infections

Sjögren’s Syndrome Diagnosis

Sjögren’s Syndrome is diagnosed through the following methods:

1. Medical history evaluation: The doctor will ask questions about your symptoms, medical history, and family history of autoimmune diseases.
2. Physical examination: The doctor will perform a thorough examination, paying attention to symptoms related to dryness of the eyes, mouth, and other affected areas.
3. Specialized tests: The following tests may be recommended:
   • Blood tests: These may include antibody tests to detect specific autoantibodies associated with Sjögren’s Syndrome, such as anti-SSA (Ro) and anti-SSB (La) antibodies.
   • Eye tests: Tests like the Schirmer test, where a small strip of paper is placed under the lower eyelid to measure tear production, may be performed.
   • Salivary gland tests: These may involve measuring the amount and quality of saliva produced, often using techniques like salivary flow rate measurement and salivary gland biopsy.
   • Imaging tests: Imaging techniques like a salivary gland ultrasound or sialography may be used to evaluate the structure and function of the salivary glands.

It is important to note that the diagnosis of Sjögren’s Syndrome requires the presence of specific criteria, which may include both subjective symptoms and objective findings from the tests mentioned above. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Please consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management of Sjögren’s Syndrome.